Snap system comprising mating rivet

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure is related to a snap system including a mating component and a snap component that connect by means of a snap fit or otherwise. The mating component simplifies the assembly process by combining a structural component and an attachment point. The snap component is associated with a removable component that mates with the attachment point of the mating component. The snap system includes a mating component that combines a structural component to secure a material and an attachment point to secure a snap component. The design of the structural component allows the mating component to be used with a variety of materials having a variable thickness. The mating component is a versatile feature as the structural component self-adjusts to the thickness of the material provided. The snap system decreases the amount of components necessary for manufacturing which may decrease the cost and improve the visual appeal.

CROSS REFERENCE PRIORITIES

This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/519,482,filed Nov. 4, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/109,779, filed Nov. 4, 2020, the contents of whichare fully incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a rivet and more specifically to arivet including an attachment means to mate with a snap.

BACKGROUND

A snap system is used to secure removable components to a material.Typically, a snap system comprises a snap that is secured to a removablecomponent and an attachment point that is secured to the material. Thesnap and the attachment point are configured to mate to attach theremovable component to the material. Most traditional attachment pointsdo not provide any structural support to the material. For example, sometraditional snap systems comprise a traditional attachment point havinga pin, where the traditional attachment point is secured to a base viathe pin. The traditional attachment point, and base are not durablecomponents and do not provide structural support to the material.Instead, most traditional attachment points simply provide a means toattach removable components. Typically, a traditional rivet is used incombination with the snap system to provide support to the material.Certain applications require both a traditional rivet to secure thematerial and a traditional attachment point to secure a removablecomponent. The combination of both a traditional rivet and a traditionalattachment point introduces multiple components placed in proximity,which can create a cluttered appearance on the material.

Further, most attachment points cannot be used on a material having avariable thickness as the pin is sized for a particular thickness. Thelocation of the attachment point is limited to a portion of the materialwith a specific thickness that corresponds to the pin size. If thematerial is too thick, the attachment point cannot be attached to thebase, and if the material is too thin, the attachment point will beloose on the material.

Most snap systems and traditional rivets each provide only a singlefunction to the material. Most attachment points are only capable ofreceiving a snap, and most traditional rivets are only capable ofsecuring a material. Therefore, there is a need in the art for amulti-functional rivet that provides a structural component to anattachment point.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a snap system, comprisinga snap, a mating rivet, a first material, and a second material.

FIG. 1B illustrates an exploded view of the snap system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mating rivet asapplied to a first material.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top perspective view of a mating rivet.

FIG. 2C illustrates a bottom perspective view of a mating rivet.

FIG. 2D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a mating rivet.

FIG. 2E illustrates an enlarged view of the mating rivet of FIG. 2D.

FIG. 3A illustrates a top perspective view of an alternative embodimentof a mating rivet.

FIG. 3B illustrates a bottom perspective view of an alternativeembodiment of a mating rivet.

FIG. 3C illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodimentof a mating rivet.

FIG. 3D illustrates a close-up view of a snap system comprising a matingrivet head and a socket comprising interlocking features.

FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional view of an installed mating rivet.

FIG. 4B illustrates a bottom view of an installed mating rivetcomprising shank sections.

FIG. 4C illustrates a perspective view of an apparatus used to install arivet.

FIG. 4D illustrates a cross-sectional view of a rivet throughoutinstallation.

FIG. 5A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a snap comprising a cap, asocket and a second material.

FIG. 5B illustrates an exploded view of the snap of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 5C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a snap comprising a cap, asocket and a second material.

FIG. 6 illustrates a side view of a golf bag comprising a rain hoodattached via a snap system, according to one embodiment.

FIG. 7A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf bag comprising amating rivet.

FIG. 7B illustrates a close-up view of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf bag comprising atraditional snap system.

FIG. 7D illustrates a close-up view of FIG. 7C.

FIG. 8A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf bag comprising amating rivet.

FIG. 8B illustrates a close-up view of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8C illustrates a cross-sectional view of a golf bag comprising atraditional snap system.

FIG. 8D illustrates a close-up view of FIG. 8C.

The disclosure described herein is a snap system comprising a matingrivet and a snap component. The mating rivet has multiple functionsbecause the mating rivet consolidates a traditional rivet with atraditional attachment point that mates with the snap component.Specifically, the mating rivet comprises a shank that permanentlysecures one or more layers of the material together and furthercomprises a head that provides an attachment point for the snapcomponent. The snap component removably attaches a component to themating rivet. For example, the mating rivet can secure multiple layersof a bag flat together, and the snap component can removably secure arain hood to the bag flat via the mating rivet. The mating rivet reducesthe number of parts required to secure a material and provide anattachment point for a snap. Further, the head and the shank of themating rivet are formed integrally, which provides a stronger attachmentpoint for the snap in comparison to a traditional snap system.

The snap system described herein has many applications, as the matingrivet and the snap can be applied to a variety of materials. The matingrivet is adjustable to varying material thickness. Specifically, theshank end splits into sections when impacted, and the sectionsself-adjust depending on the thickness of the material. Someapplications of the snap system can include, but are not limited to,golf bags, sports bags, backpacks, tents, vehicle accessories, andtarps.

Definitions

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art. In case of conflict, the present document, includingdefinitions, will control. Preferred methods and materials similar orequivalent to those described herein can be used in practice or testingof the present disclosure. All publications, patent applications,patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated byreference in their entirety. The materials, methods, and examplesdisclosed herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The terms “comprise(s),” “include(s),” “has,” “can,” and variantsthereof, as used herein are intended to be open-ended transitionalphrases, terms or words that do not preclude the possibility ofadditional acts or structures. The singular forms “a,” “and,” and “the”include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.The present disclosure also contemplates other embodiments “comprising,”“consisting of,” and “consisting essentially of” the embodiments orelements presented herein, whether explicitly set forth or not.

The term “approximately” as used hereinafter in the disclosure below isused in connection with a quantity is inclusive of the stated value andhas the meaning dictated by the context (for example, it includes atleast the degree of error associated with the measurement of theparticular quantity). The modifier “approximately” should also beconsidered as disclosing the range defined by the absolute values of thetwo endpoints. For example, the expression “from approximately 2 toapproximately 4” also discloses the range “from 2 to 4.” The term“approximately” may refer to plus or minus 10% of the indicated number.For example, “approximately 10%” may indicate a range of 9% to 11%, and“approximately 1” may mean from 0.9-1.1. Other meanings of“approximately” may be apparent from the context.

The terms “first,” “second,” as used hereinafter in the disclosure belowis used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarilyfor describing a particular sequential or chronological order. It is tobe understood that the terms so used are interchangeable underappropriate circumstances such that the embodiments described hereinare, for example, capable of operation in sequences other than thoseillustrated or otherwise described herein. Furthermore, the terms“include,” and “have,” and any variations thereof, are intended to covera non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, system, article,device, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements is notnecessarily limited to those elements but may include other elements notexpressly listed or inherent to such process, method, system, article,device, or apparatus.

The term “inner,” “outer,” “interior,” “exterior” “top,” “upper,”“bottom,” and “lower” and the like in the description and in the claims,if any, are used for descriptive purposes and not necessarily fordescribing permanent relative positions. It is to be understood that theterms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances suchthat the embodiments of the apparatus, methods, and/or articles ofmanufacture described herein are, for example, capable of operation inother orientations than those illustrated or otherwise described herein

“Attachment point” as described herein is a component of a snap systemthat mates with a snap. An attachment point can define a male componentor a female component of the snap system. An attachment point is securedto a material and mates with a snap to attach removable components tothe material.

“Structural component” as described herein can be a mechanical fastenerthat is capable of securing a material. Structural components caninclude rivets, bolts, screws, or any other sturdy mechanical fastener.

“Traditional rivet” as described herein is a structural component usedto secure a material. A traditional rivet comprises a head and a shankextending from the head. A traditional rivet is a purely structuralcomponent meaning the head does not include an attachment point thatmates with a snap. Instead, a traditional rivet head is flat. In sometraditional rivets, the shank secures an attachment point. In theserivets, the attachment point is not formed integrally with thetraditional rivet.

“Traditional snap system” as described herein can be a snap systemcomprising at least an attachment point and a snap that mates with theattachment point. In a first exemplary traditional snap system, theattachment point comprises a head having a pin that extends through amaterial and is received by a base. In the first exemplary traditionalsnap system, the attachment point, pin, and socket are not structuralcomponents. Further, the attachment point is formed from a polymericmaterial. In a second exemplary traditional snap system, the attachmentpoint comprises a head and a base having a shank, where the shank isreceived through an aperture defined by the head. The head and base arenot formed integrally.

“First material” as described herein can be a material secured by amating rivet. The first material is captured between the head and thetail end or shank sections of a mating rivet. The first materialcomprises one or more layers. The one or more layers define aperturesthat align to receive the mating rivet shank. The one or more layers ofthe first material can be a cloth material, metallic material, polymericmaterial, or any combination thereof. The one or more layers cancomprise the same material, or different materials. The one or morelayers can each comprise the same thickness, or different thicknesses.The one or more layers can be 1 layer, 2 layers, 3 layers, 4 layers, 5layers, 6 layers, 7 layers, 8 layers, 9 layers, or 10 or more layers.The thickness of the first material is between 2.0 mm to 16.0 mm. Insome embodiments, the thickness of the first material is between 2.0 mmto 3.0 mm, 3.0 mm to 4.0 mm, 4.0 mm to 5.0 mm, 5.0 mm to 6.0 mm, 6.0 mmto 7.0 mm, 7.0 mm to 8.0 mm, 8.0 mm to 9.0 mm, 9.0 mm to 10.0 mm, 10.0mm to 11.0 mm, 11.0 mm to 12.0 mm, 12.0 mm to 13.0 mm, 13.0 mm to 14.0mm, 14.0 mm to 15.0 mm, or 15.0 mm to 16.0 mm.

“Second material” as described herein can be a material secured by asnap. The second material is captured between the cap and the socket ofthe snap. The second material comprises one or more layers. The one ormore layers define apertures that align to receive the post of the cap.The one or more layers of the second material can be a cloth material,metallic material, polymeric material, or any combination thereof. Theone or more layers can comprise the same material, or differentmaterials. The one or more layers can each comprise the same thickness,or different thicknesses. The one or more layers can be 1 layer, 2layers, 3 layers, 4 layers, 5 layers, 6 layers, 7 layers, 8 layers, 9layers, or 10 or more layers. The thickness of the second material isbetween 0.20 mm and 4.20 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of thesecond material is between 0.20 mm to 0.70 mm, 0.70 mm to 1.20 mm, 1.20mm to 1.70 mm, 1.70 mm to 2.70 mm, 2.70 mm to 3.20 mm, 3.20 mm to 3.70mm, or 3.70 mm to 4.20 mm.

“Impact” as used herein refers to the action of applying force to therivet to deform the shank tail end. A rivet is considered installedafter impact.

“Snap fit connection” as used herein is any connection that is engagedvia a pressing force. A snap fit connection can be secured without theuse of a tool and is releasable. Typically, one component of the snapfit connection is a male component. A female component has anindentation, aperture, or housing that receives the male component.However, snap fit connections are not limited to this typicalembodiment. Many elements are described with “snap fit” as an adjective,meaning that the element can be engaged with either itself or anotherelement via a snap fit connection.

“Golf bag” as used herein is a type of storage bag for storing andtransporting golf clubs. A golf bag comprises structural componentsincluding a flat, a base, and a divider top, as defined below. A golfbag further comprises removable components, such as a rain hood or atowel. The structural components and/or the removable components can besecured by means of a snap system.

“Flat” as used herein is a tubular portion, outer shell, outer housing,or cover that attaches to and extends between the divider top and thebase of a golf bag. The flat can be formed from leather, syntheticleather, fabric, or other suitable materials.

“Rain Hood” as used herein is a component that is used to cover thedivider top and provide a water resistance shelter for the clubs. A rainhood is detachable and comprises a water resistant fabric. A rain hoodcomprises a main portion that covers the golf club heads, and a lowerperimeter where the rain hood is attached to the golf bag. A rain hoodfurther comprises an interior side that faces the golf clubs, and anexterior side that is exposed to an exterior.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The disclosure described herein is a snap-fit system comprising a snapcomponent and a mating component. The snap component is secured to aremovable component, and has the ability to mate with the matingcomponent. The snap component can be, but is not limited to a button,snap, or any other mating component. The mating component binds togethera first material and provides a structure to attach the snap component.The mating component consolidates a structural component and anattachment point, where the attachment point mates with the snapcomponent. The structural component is a mechanical fastener capable ofsecuring a material different than the material of the removablecomponent This mechanical fastener can be, but is not limited to arivet, bolt, screw, or any mechanical fastener.

The mating component provides multiple functions to the snap system.More specifically, the first function is providing an attachment pointfor the snap component, and the second function is providing astructural component for the first material. The mating component hasmany applications as it can permanently bind together the material andallow a removable component to be attached to the material. Theembodiments describe below are not limited to a combination of astructural component being a rivet and an attachment point being afemale snap component.

The mating component can be a mating rivet, which consolidates atraditional rivet shank with an attachment point for the snap into onestructure. The mating rivet reduces the number of parts required topermanently secure a material and removably secure another. Further, themating rivet provides a more secure attachment point than a traditionalsnap system because the mating rivet is a structural component.

The mating rivet head is an attachment point for a snap and is formedintegrally with the rivet shank. Therefore, the mating rivet is amulti-functional component, where the shank is a structural componentthat secures a first material, and the head is an attachment point for asnap. Various embodiments of the snap system are associated with theadvantages described below.

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, a first embodiment of the snap system 100comprises a snap 150 and a mating rivet 110. The mating rivet 110provides a structural component to a first material 112, and furtherprovides an attachment point for the snap 150. The snap 150 is securedto a second material 152 and encapsulates the mating rivet head 120. Thesnap 150 and the mating rivet 110 provide a means to permanently securethe first material 112 and removably secure second material 152 to thefirst material 112.

I. Mating Rivet

The mating rivet 110 is a mechanical fastener that provides twofunctions to the snap system 100. Since the mating rivet 110consolidates an attachment point with a traditional rivet, it providesstructural support to the first material 112 and provides an attachmentpoint for the snap 150. Referring to FIG. 2A, the mating rivet 110comprises a head 120 and a shank 140. The head 120 is an attachmentpoint that mates with the snap 150, and the shank 140 is the structuralcomponent that secures the first material 112. The head 120 is expose onthe first material exterior side 116, which allows the snap 150 to matewith the head 120. The head 120 can comprise a geometry that correspondsto the geometry of the snap 150 to facilitate the removable connectionbetween the mating rivet 110 and the snap 150. The shank 140 is alignedand positioned within an aperture 118 defined by the first material 112.The shank 140 deforms in response to an impact to compress the firstmaterial 112 between the head 120 and the shank 140. The shank 140 isexposed on the first material interior side 114 and it is not visiblefrom the first material exterior side 116. In one exemplary application,the mating rivet 110 can be used to secure a golf bag flat. The head 120can be exposed on an exterior side of the golf bag and can receive aremovable component, and the shank 140 can be exposed on an interiorside of the golf bag and secure the flat material.

a. Head with Protrusion

As discussed above, the mating rivet head 120 is exposed on the firstmaterial exterior side 116. The head 120 mates with the snap 150 toremovably secure the second material 152 to the first material. FIGS.2A-2E illustrate a first embodiment of mating rivet head 120. Referringto FIGS. 2B and 2C, the head 120 comprises an upper surface 122, a lowersurface 124, and a perimeter surface 126. The upper surface 122 isproximate the snap 150. The lower surface 124 is opposite the uppersurface 122, and the shank 140 extends from the lower surface 124. Thehead 120 is positioned such that the lower surface 124 lies flush withthe first material exterior side 116, and the lower surface 124 isparallel to the first material exterior side 116. The lower surface 124does not interact with the snap 150. The perimeter surface 126circumscribes the head 120. The perimeter surface 126 is perpendicularto the first material exterior side 116. The upper surface 122 and theperimeter surface 126 contact the snap 150, as illustrated in FIG. 1A.Various embodiments are arranged with the geometry of the upper surface122 and the perimeter surface 126.

The upper surface 122 and the perimeter surface 126 can comprise ageometry that corresponds to the geometry of the snap 150. Thecorresponding geometry facilitates the interaction between the snap 150and the mating rivet head 120. Referring to FIG. 2D, the upper surface122 comprises a center portion 128 and a peripheral portion 132. Thecenter portion 128 is recessed into the head 120 toward the lowersurface 124, thereby defining a recess 130. The recess 130 isbowl-shaped and convex relative to the first material 112. The recess130 is configured to receive a portion of the snap 150, as described inbetter detail below. The recess 130 is configured to allow the snap 150to easily mate with the head 120. Therefore, the recess 130 facilitatesthe interaction between the head 120 and the snap 150. The recess 130 isa smooth continuous surface devoid of an aperture. The recess 130 islocated within the center portion 128 of the upper surface 122, suchthat the peripheral portion 132 circumscribes the recess 130.

Referring to FIG. 2E, the peripheral portion 132 defines a rim 134 thatcircumscribes the recess 130. The rim 134 is a raised portion relativeto the recess 130. In some embodiments, the rim 134 is flat or parallelrelative to the first material exterior side 116. In other embodiments,the rim 134 is rounded. In some embodiments, the rim 134 is a continuousuninterrupted surface. In other embodiments, the rim 134 comprisesinterlocking features that mate with corresponding interlocking featureson the snap 150 (not shown). The rim 134 and the perimeter surface 126contact the snap 150 and are configured to form a tight but removableconnection with the snap 150.

Referring again to FIG. 2E, the perimeter surface 126 comprises acircumferential protrusion 136 (hereafter referred to as “theprotrusion”) that projects outwardly from the perimeter surface 126. Theprotrusion 136 is received within a depression 176 defined by the snap,as discussed in better detail below. As such, the protrusion 136 furtherfacilitates the tight but removable connection with the snap 150. Theprotrusion 136 extends in a direction parallel to the lower surface 124.The protrusion 136 is located closer to the upper surface 122 than thelower surface 124. As such, the protrusion 136 defines a transitionbetween the rim 134 and the perimeter surface 126. In some embodiments,the protrusion 136 is rounded, as illustrated in FIG. 2E. In otherembodiments, the protrusion 136 is rectangular in a cross-sectionalview, thereby defining a shelf (not shown). The geometry of the uppersurface 122 and the perimeter surface 126, specifically the recess 130and the protrusion 136 facilitate the interaction between the head 120and the snap 150. The capability of the head 120 to interact with thesnap 150 is the first function of the multi-function mating rivet 110.Various embodiments of the mating rivet 110 are associated with thecapability to receive removable components.

b. Head with Curved Rim

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate a second embodiment of the mating rivet head 220.The head 220 is similar to the head 120 and is described using similarreference numbers to head 120. For example, the head 220 comprises anupper surface 222 and a perimeter surface 226, which are similar to theupper surface 122 and the lower surface 126 of head 120. The head 220 isassociated with a shank 240, which is similar to shank 140 of the matingrivet 110. The head 220 is further associated with a snap 250, which isconfigured to mate with the head 220. The main difference in the head220, in comparison to the head 120, is the geometry of the rim 234.Referring to FIG. 3C, the rim 234 is rounded and creates a smoothtransition to the perimeter surface 226. Further, the head 220 comprisesa greater thickness than the thickness of the head 120. The increasedthickness of the head 220 can provide a strong attachment point.Further, the increased thickness provides a deeper recess 230, which canallow the head 220 to mate with various embodiment of the snap.

c. Head with Interlocking Features

FIG. 3D illustrates a third embodiment of the snap system 300 comprisinga mating rivet 310 and a snap 350. The mating rivet 310 is similar tothe mating rivet 110 and is described using similar reference numbers tothe mating rivet 110. For example, the mating rivet 310 comprises a head320 and a shank 340, which are similar to the head 120 and a shank 140of the mating rivet 110. Further, the snap 350 is similar to the snap150 and is described using similar reference numbers to the snap 150.For example, the snap comprises a cap 380 and a socket 360 similar tothe cap 180 and the socket 160 of the snap 150. The snap system 300 issimilar to the snap system 100, except for the addition of interlockingfeatures.

The snap system 300 further comprises interlocking features positionedon the head 320 of the mating rivet 310 that correspond to interlockingfeatures positioned on the socket 360 of the snap 350. The interlockingfeatures can provide torsional resistance to the snap system 300, whilestill allowing the snap 350 to removably mate with the mating rivet 310.The interlocking features can be one or more projections, teeth,recesses, threads, or any other interlocking feature. The interlockingfeatures described herein can further lock the head 320 into the cavity370 of the socket 360.

The head 320 comprises a first interlocking feature located near theupper surface 322. The first interlocking feature mates with a secondinterlocking feature, which is located on the socket 360. In someembodiments, the first interlocking feature can protrude from the headupper surface 322, and the second interlocking feature can be configuredto receive the first interlocking feature. Referring to FIG. 3D, thefirst interlocking feature can be a plurality of teeth 394 that projectfrom the rim 334 of the head 320. The second interlocking feature can bea plurality of recesses 396 that are recessed into the cavity floor 374of the socket 360. The cavity 370 can receive the head 320 such that theplurality of recesses 396 receive the plurality of teeth 394. Theconnection between the head 320 and the socket 360 can be secure for thereasons discussed above, and the interlocking features can furtherprovide torsional resistance to the snap system 300.

Various embodiments of the snap system described herein can beassociated with interlocking features and are not limited to a headcomprising a plurality of teeth and a socket comprising a plurality ofcorresponding recesses. The reinforcement provided by the interlockingfeatures can be useful in certain applications where twisting betweenthe head 320 and the snap 350 is undesirable. Some applications of thesnap system 300 comprising interlocking features can include but are notlimited to snaps systems applied to removably attachable golf bagaccessories, tents, vehicle accessories, and tarps. The interlockingfeatures can comprise any compatible geometry that prevents undesiredtwisting while still allowing a removable connection between the head320 and the socket 360.

The head can be configured to be received within and encapsulated by thesnap. Therefore, the geometry and dimensions of the head can be selectedto correspond to the geometry and dimensions of the snap. The dimensionsdiscussed below can be applied to the various embodiments of the head120, 220, 320 described herein.

The head comprises an outer diameter and a thickness, for receivingcorresponding dimensions of the snap cavity. The outer diameter ismeasured from the furthest extent of the perimeter surface. The outerdiameter can vary in a direction from the upper surface to the lowersurface to accommodate various embodiments of a snap. The maximum outerdiameter can be near the upper surface or near the protrusion, and theminimum outer diameter can be near the lower surface.

The outer diameter is between 5.0 mm to 10.0 mm. In some embodiments,the outer diameter is between 5.0 mm to 7.0 mm, 5.0 mm to 8.0 mm, 6.0 mmto 8.0 mm, 7.0 mm to 9.0 mm, or 9.0 mm to 10.0 mm. In some embodiments,the outer diameter is approximately 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, 6.0 mm, 6.5 mm, 7.0mm, 7.5 mm, 8.0 mm, 8.5 mm, 9.0 mm, 9.5 mm, or 10.0 mm. In one exemplaryembodiment, the outer diameter can be 7.5 mm near the lower surface and7.8 mm near the protrusion. In another exemplary embodiment, the outerdiameter can be 9.6 mm near the lower surface and 10.0 mm near the uppersurface.

The thickness of the head is measured from the upper surface to thelower surface. The thickness can vary throughout the head from the rimtowards the center portion of the head. The minimum thickness can benear the center portion or the recess, and the maximum thickness can benear the perimeter surface or the rim. The thickness can be optimized tocreate a non-obtrusive head that is still thick enough to provide asufficient attachment point for the snap. The thickness can be selectedto create a low-profile head that is less-likely to be snagged ordamaged.

The thickness is between 1.00 mm and 5.00 mm. In some embodiments, thethickness is between 1.00 mm to 1.50 mm, 1.50 mm to 2.00 mm, 2.00 mm to3.50 mm, 3.50 mm to 4.00 mm, 4.00 mm to 4.50 mm, or 4.50 mm to 5.00 mm.In some embodiments, the thickness is approximately 1.00 mm, 1.50 mm,2.00 mm, 2.50 mm, 3.00 mm, 3.50 mm, 4.00 mm, 4.50 mm, or 5.00 mm. In oneexemplary embodiment, the thickness can be 1.25 mm near the recess and2.25 mm near the rim. In another exemplary embodiment, the thickness canbe 1.25 mm near the recess and 4.50 mm near the rim.

The head further comprises a recess diameter and a recess depth. Thesedimensions can be selected to accommodate various embodiments of a snap.For example, in some snap systems, a portion of the snap can be receivedwithin the recess. While the snap encapsulates the head, a portion ofthe snap can rest within the recess, as discussed in better detailbelow. The recess dimensions can further facilitate the interactionbetween the snap and the mating rivet head.

The recess diameter is measured across the recess from the furthestextent of the rim. The recess diameter is between 2.0 mm and 10.0 mm. Insome embodiments, the recess diameter is between 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm, 3.0mm to 4.0 mm, 3.0 mm to 6.0 mm, 4.0 mm to 6.0 mm, 5.0 mm to 7.0 mm, 6.0mm to 8.0 mm, 6.0 mm to 9.0 mm, or 7.0 mm to 10.0 mm. In someembodiments, the recess diameter is approximately 2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, 6.0 mm, 6.5 mm, 7.0 mm, 7.5mm, 8.0 mm, 8.5 mm, 9.0 mm, 9.5 mm, or 10.0 mm. In one exemplaryembodiment, the recess diameter can be 4.0 mm. In another exemplaryembodiment, the recess diameter can be 6.4 mm.

The recess depth is measured from the rim to the bottom of the recess.The recess depth is between 0.50 mm and 4.50 mm. In some embodiments,the recess depth is between 0.50 mm to 1.00 mm, 1.00 mm to 1.50 mm, 2.00mm to 3.50 mm, or 3.00 mm to 4.50 mm. In some embodiments, the recessdepth is approximately 0.50 mm, 1.00 mm, 1.50 mm, 2.00 mm, 2.50 mm, 3.00mm, 3.50 mm, 4.00 mm, or 4.50 mm. In one exemplary embodiment, therecess depth can be 1.00 mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the recessdepth can be 3.25 mm.

As discussed above, the head is the attachment point for the snap.Therefore, various embodiments of the mating rivet head described hereincan be associated with dimensions compatible to the dimensions of acorresponding snap. Specifically, the geometry and dimensions of thehead can be selected to allow the head to be received within the snap.

The mating rivet described herein is a multi-functional rivet. The headprovides the first function to the mating rivet by providing anattachment point for the snap. The shank provides the second function byproviding a structural component for securing the first material.Forming the head integrally with the shank, provides a sturdy attachmentpoint because the head is integral with a structural component.

The head is exposed on the exterior side of the first material and ispreferably waterproof to prevent damage to the interior side of thefirst material. Therefore, various embodiments of the disclosure can beassociated waterproof head features. For example, the head upper surfaceand perimeter surface can be continuous surfaces that are devoid ofapertures. Further, the head lower surface can be flush with theexterior side of the first material. The tight fit between the head andthe first material, and the lack of apertures can create a waterproofhead. The tight fit between the head and the first material isfacilitated by the shank, which self-adjusts during installation to thethickness of the material.

d. Shank

As discussed above, the shank 140 provides the second function to themating rivet 110 by providing a structural component that secures thefirst material 112. More specifically, the shank 140 is aligned andpositioned within an aperture 118 of the first material 112, and theshank 140 bends in response to an impact to compress the first material112 between the head 120 and the shank 140. The head 120 is exposed onthe first material exterior side 116, and the shank 140 is exposed onthe first material interior side 114.

Referring to FIG. 4A, the shank 140 extends from the head lower surface124. The shank 140 comprises a hollow cylinder having a tail end 142.The tail end 142 is located opposite the head 120. In some embodiments,the shank 140 is positioned within a premade aperture of the firstmaterial 112. However, the shank 140 is strong enough to puncturethrough the first material 112 upon impact and does not require apremade aperture. The shank 140 extends through the first material 112from the exterior side 116 to the interior side 114, and the tail end142 extends beyond the first material 112. The entire shank 140 extendsperpendicularly through the aperture 118, as illustrated in FIG. 2A. Thetail end 142 deforms in response to an impact during installation andsplits into one or more shank sections 144.

FIG. 4C illustrates the apparatus used to install the mating rivet 110to the first material 112. The apparatus includes a press and an anvil,where the anvil includes a surface having an imprinted shape. Theimprinted shape corresponds to the desired geometry of the deformedshank 140.

FIG. 4D illustrates the mating rivet 110 throughout installation. Priorto installation, the shank 140 extends perpendicularly through theaperture 118 of the first material 112. During installation, the pressapplies a downward force to the head 120 until the shank 140 impacts theimprinted surface. The impact and the imprinted surface force the shank140 to deform according to the imprinted shape of the anvil. In someembodiments, the imprinted shape splits the tail end 142 into one ormore equal shank sections 144. In one embodiment, the tail end 142splits into six equal shank sections.

FIG. 4B illustrates the shank sections 144 from the first materialinterior side 114. Each shank section 144 bends back toward the headlower surface 124. The shank sections 144 pinch the first materialinterior side 114. The shank sections 144 tightly secure the firstmaterial 112 by applying a force a direction towards the rivet head 120.

Various embodiments of the disclosure can be associated with the abilityto use the mating rivet at different locations on the first material,where the different locations have different thicknesses. Morespecifically, the shank sections can split and bend at different lengthsbased on the thickness of the first material. In some traditional snapsystems, the attachment point pin comprises a fixed length, and the pinsnaps into the base at a fixed location. Therefore, the locations of theattachment point of the traditional snap system are limited.

Various embodiments of the disclosure can be associated with the shanksections, which are a non-obtrusive feature relative to the firstmaterial. In other words, the shank sections do not protrude from thefirst material, but instead, lie flush with the interior side of thefirst material. The flush shank sections can be covered to be hiddenfrom visibility. Various embodiments of the disclosure can be associatedwith the shank sections, which are positioned near the first materialinterior side and do not secure an attachment point. Some traditionalsnap systems, comprise a separate attachment point that is held by theshank sections. In this type of traditional snap system, the shanksections are formed on the exterior side of the first material. Theshank sections of the mating rivet, however, are exposed on the interiorside. The shank sections of the traditional snap system cannot be hiddenfrom visibility on the exterior side of the first material.

The shank can be configured to be received within an aperture defined bythe first material and to provide support to the first material.Further, the shank can be configured to provide support to the matingrivet head. The dimensions discussed below can be applied to the variousembodiments of the shank as described herein.

The shank comprises a length and a diameter. The length of the shank canbe selected to ensure the shank sections are long enough to providesubstantial support to the first material. Further, the diameter of theshank can be selected to ensure the shank provides substantial supportto the mating rivet head and can be received within the first materialaperture.

The length is measured along the shank from the tail end to the end nearthe mating rivet head. The length is between 8.0 mm and 20.0 mm. In someembodiments, the length is between 8 mm to 12 mm, 8 mm to 15 mm, 12 mmto 15 mm, 12 mm to 18 mm, 13 mm to 15 mm, 14 mm to 16 mm, 14 mm to 17mm, 15 mm to 18 mm, 16 mm to 19 mm, or 16 mm to 20. In some embodimentsthe length is approximately 8.0 mm, 8.5 mm, 9.0 mm, 9.5 mm, 10.0 mm,10.5 mm, 11.0 mm, 11.5 mm, 12.0 mm, 12.5 mm, 13.0 mm, 13.5 mm, 14.0 mm,14.5 mm, 15.0 mm, 15.5 mm, 16.0 mm, 16.5 mm, 17.0 mm, 17.5 mm, 18.0 mm,18.5 mm, 19.0 mm, 19.5 mm, or 20.0 mm. In one embodiment, the length ofthe shank can be 10.0 mm.

The diameter is measured across the shank in a direction perpendicularto the shank length. The diameter is between 2.0 mm and 10.0 mm. In someembodiments, the diameter is between 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm, 3.0 mm to 5.0 mm,4.0 mm to 7.0 mm, 5.0 mm to 8.0 mm, 6.0 mm to 9.0 mm, 7.0 mm to 9.0 mm,or 8.0 mm to 10.0 mm. In some embodiments, the diameter is approximately2.0 mm, 2.5 mm, 3.0 mm, 3.5 mm, 4.0 mm, 4.5 mm, 5.0 mm, 5.5 mm, 6.0 mm,6.5 mm, 7.0 mm, 7.5 mm, 8.0 mm, 8.5 mm, 9.0 mm, 9.5 mm, or 10.0 mm.Various embodiments of the shank are associated with the aforementioneddimensions. The dimensions of the shank can be selected to ensure theshank provides substantial support to the head and the first material.

As discussed above, the head and the shank are formed integrally, whichforms a secure structural component and attachment point for the snap.The head and the shank are formed from a single material. In someembodiments, the mating rivet is formed from a metallic material. Forexample, the mating rivet can be formed from a titanium alloy or a steelalloy. Forming the mating rivet from a steel alloy allows the matingrivet to maintain the desirable characteristics of a traditionalall-steel rivet. For example, traditional all-steel rivets are strong,durable, and resistant to vibrations. In some traditional snap systems,the attachment point, and base are formed from a polymeric material. Insuch traditional snap systems, the attachment point, and base are notstrong enough to be used as structural components. The mating rivetdescribed herein provides a structural component to the first materialin addition to providing an attachment point for the snap.

The snap system 100 further comprises a snap 150, which is associatedwith a second material 152. The snap system 100 provides a removableconnection between the first material 112 and the second material 152via the mating rivet 110 and the snap 150. As discussed above, themating rivet 110 provides a structural component to the first material112 and provides an attachment point for the snap 150. The snap 150 isconfigured to removably secure a second material 152 and to receive themating rivet head 120 to secure the snap system 100.

II. Snap

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate one embodiment of the snap 150. As discussedabove, the snap 150 is the second component of the snap system 100,which is associated with a second removable material 152. The snap 150comprises a cap 180 and a socket 160, where the socket 160 is located onthe second material interior side 154, and the cap 180 is located on thesecond material exterior side 156. The socket 160 receives the cap 180,and the second material 152 is secured therebetween. The socket 160further receives the mating rivet head 120 such that the second materialinterior side 154 contacts the first material exterior side 116. The cap180 is positioned further away from the mating rivet 110 and is the onlyvisible component of the snap system 100 from the exterior. In oneexemplary application, the mating rivet 110 can be used to secure a golfbag flat and the snap 150 can be secured to the rain hood. The matingrivet head 120 can be exposed on an exterior side of the golf bag, andthe snap 150 can receive the mating rivet head 120 to secure the rainhood to the golf bag. The cap 180 can be the outermost component of thesnap system 100.

a. Cap

Referring to FIG. 5B, the cap 180 comprises a top surface 182 and abottom surface 184. The cap top surface 182 is visible from the secondmaterial exterior side 156. The cap top surface 182 is the only visibleportion of the assembled snap system 100. The cap top surface 182 is asmooth uninterrupted surface that is devoid of an aperture or a recess.The cap top surface 182 and cap bottom surface 184 are concave relativeto the second material 152. The cap bottom surface 184 is proximate themating rivet head 120 and contacts the second material exterior side156.

The cap 180 further comprises a post 188 that extends towards the socket160 from the cap bottom surface 184. The post 188 is received throughthe second material aperture 158 and further received by a socketaperture 168. FIG. 5A illustrates the cap 180 as received by the socket160, where a distal end of the post 188 deforms in response to animpact, thereby defining a stud 190. The stud 190 comprises a diameterlarger than the diameter of the socket aperture 168, which secures thecap 180 to the socket 160. The increased diameter of the stud 190anchors the cap 180 to the socket 160, which ensures the socket 160 andcap 180 bind and affix to each other as the snap 150 engages anddisengages the mating rivet head 120. The stud 190 further helps topinch the second material 152 between the cap 180 and the socket 160.Referring to FIG. 1A, the stud 190 can be positioned within the matingrivet head recess 130. In some embodiments, the stud 190 can compriseone or more prongs that can engage with one or more teeth that arepositioned within the mating rivet head recess 130 (not shown). The cap180 is received within the socket 160, and the second material 152 ispinched therebetween. The cap 180 is the portion of the snap 150 that isexposed on the second material exterior side 154.

b. Socket

The socket 160 is the portion of the snap 150 that receives the matingrivet head. The socket 160 comprises a top surface 162 and a bottomsurface 164. The socket top surface 162 is proximate the cap 180 andcontacts the second material 152. The second material 152 is securedbetween the cap bottom surface 184 and the socket top surface 162. Thesocket bottom surface 164 is proximate the mating rivet head 120.

The socket 160 further comprises a central portion 166 and a perimeterportion 178. Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the central portion 166defines a cavity 170 that is recessed away from the socket bottomsurface 164 into the socket 160 via a cavity wall 172 and a cavity floor174. Further, the cavity 170 defines a depression 176, where a portionof the cavity wall 172 is further recessed into the socket 160. Thedepression 176 is near the cavity floor 174. The cavity 170 receives andencapsulates the mating rivet head 120 to secure the snap 150 to themating rivet 110.

The cavity 170 comprises a geometry that is compatible with the matingrivet head 120 geometry to create a tight connection between the snap150 and the mating rivet 110. Referring to FIG. 1A, the cavity 170receives the head 120 such that the cavity floor 174 contacts the matingrivet head rim 134, and the cavity wall 172 contacts the perimetersurface 126 of the mating rivet head 120. Further, the depression 176receives the mating rivet head protrusion 136. The snap 150 encapsulatesthe head 120 such that the stud 190 sits within the recess 130. The stud190 is required to anchor the cap 180 to the socket 160, and the recess130 is required to provide space for the stud 190. Therefore, the recess130 and the corresponding geometries of the cavity 170 and the head 120facilitate the releasable connection between the mating rivet 110 andthe snap 150.

Various embodiments of the cavity can be sized to facilitate thereleasable connection with the mating rivet head. The cavity comprises adepth that corresponds to the thickness of the mating rivet head, and adiameter that corresponds to the diameter of the mating rivet head. Thedimensions discussed below can be applied to the various embodiments ofthe cavity as described herein.

The depth of the cavity is measured from the socket bottom surface tothe cavity floor and can also be considered as the height of the cavitywalls. The depth is between 0.75 mm and 4.75 mm. In some embodiments,the depth is between 0.75 mm to 1.75 mm, 1.75 mm to 2.75 mm, 2.75 mm to3.75 mm, or 3.75 mm to 4.75 mm. In some embodiments, the depth isapproximately 0.75 mm, 1.00 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.50 mm, 1.75 mm, 2.0 mm, 2.25mm, 2.50 mm, 2.75 mm, 3.00 mm, 3.25 mm, 3.50 mm, 3.75 mm, 4.00 mm 4.25mm, 4.50 mm, or 4.75 mm. In one exemplary embodiment, the cavity depthcan be 1.25 mm. In another exemplary embodiment, the cavity depth can be3.25 mm.

The diameter of the cavity is measured across the cavity from thefurthest extent of the cavity walls. The cavity diameter can vary fromthe socket top surface to the socket bottom surface. The maximum cavitydiameter can be near the cavity floor or the depression, and the minimumcavity diameter can be near the socket bottom surface. The variablecavity diameter can correspond to the variable diameter of the matingrivet head. The cavity diameter is between 5.00 mm and 10.0 mm. In someembodiments, the diameter is between 5.00 mm to 7.00 mm, 6.00 mm to 9.00mm, 7.00 mm to 10.00 mm, or 8.00 mm to 10.00 mm. In some embodiments,the depth is approximately 5.00 mm, 5.50 mm, 6.00 mm, 6.50 mm, 7.00 mm,7.50 mm, 8.00 mm, 8.50 mm, 9.00 mm, 9.50 mm, or 10.0 mm. In oneexemplary embodiment, the cavity diameter can be 8.00 mm near the cavityfloor, and 7.65 mm near the bottom surface. In another exemplaryembodiment, the cavity diameter can be 10.00 mm near the cavity floor,and 9.65 mm near the bottom surface.

The socket 160 is configured to removably receive the mating rivet head120, and to permanently receive the cap 180. The central portion 166further defines an aperture 168 that extends from the socket top surface162 to the cavity floor 174. The aperture 168 is located at a thinnedregion of the socket 160 above the cavity 170. The post 188 extends fromthe cap 180 through the aperture 168 such that the stud 190 sits nearthe cavity floor 174. The diameter of the stud 190 is larger than thediameter of the aperture 168, which prevents the post 188 from releasingfrom the cavity. The stud 190 anchors the cap 180 to the socket 160 andensures the cap 180 binds and affixes to the socket 160.

Referring to FIG. 1A, the stud 190 further sits within the mating rivethead recess 130 but does not contact the recess 130. Further, the matingrivet head recess 130 does not contact the cavity floor 174. The socketcentral portion 166 facilitates the connections between the socket 160and the cap 180, and the socket 160 and the mating rivet head 120. Inother words, the socket central portion 166 acts as a connection bridgebetween the mating rivet head 120 and the snap 150. The socket perimeterportion 178 facilitates the removable connection between the snap 150and the mating rivet head 120.

The perimeter portion 178 of the socket 160 circumscribes the centralportion 166. Referring to FIG. 5B, the perimeter portion 178 comprises areduced thickness compared to the central portion 166. Referring to FIG.1A, the perimeter portion 178 and the first material 112 define a gap138 therebetween. The gap 138 allows the user to reach between theperimeter portion 178 and the first material 112 to remove the snap 150from the mating rivet head 120. The snap 150 is almost completely flushwith the first material 112 when received by the mating rivet 110. Thistight fit is desirable for aesthetic purposes. The snap system 100 doesnot protrude from the first material 112 and is not an obtrusivefeature. However, the gap 138 helps the user remove the snap 150 fromthe mating rivet head 120. The socket 160 is secured directly onto themating rivet head 120, and the snap system 100 does not require anyadditional pieces to facilitate the connection. Therefore, snap system100 can be a two piece, low-profile and non-obtrusive system. However,the snap system described herein is not limited to a two-partconstruction and can further comprise other adjustable components.

FIG. 5C illustrates a second embodiment of the snap 250, which isassociated with the mating rivet 210 and snap system 200. The snap 250is similar to snap 150 and similar reference numbers are used todescribe the snap 250. For example, the snap 250 comprises a cap 280 anda socket 260, which are similar to the cap 180 and the socket 160 ofsnap 150. The cap 280 comprises a post 288. The post 288 comprises atail 290, where the tail 290 deforms to secure the socket 260. Thesocket 260 comprises a perimeter rim 278 that facilitates the releasableconnection between the snap 250 and the mating rivet head 220.

The snap can be formed from a polymeric material. In some embodiments,the polymeric material is Polyoxymethylene (POM). Forming the snap fromPOM allows it to easily deform around a steel mating rivet. Further, POMis a thermoplastic material having a high tensile strength that candeform as the socket and mating rivet head are interfaced.

As discussed above, the snap system provides several advantages over theart. The mating rivet is multi-functional, which reduces the number ofparts required to secure a material and attach removable components. Themating rivet eliminates the need for a pin and a base to secure anattachment point, which is required in a traditional snap system.Further, the mating rivet provides a durable attachment point that isformed integrally with a rivet. The mating rivet can be used with avariety of material thicknesses because the shank sections bend andcooperate as needed with the material. The mating rivet is a waterprooffeature that does not require a cover when it is expose and not matingwith the snap. Further, the mating rivet head is a low-profile featurethat lies flush with a material. Because the mating rivet does notprotrude from the material, it is a non-obtrusive feature that isprotected from wear.

III. Rivet as Applied to a Golf Bag

The snap system described herein can be applied to a variety ofmaterials and has many applications including but not limited tosecuring removable components to tents and sports bags or securing atarp to a different material. One application of the snap system is to agolf bag. A golf bag comprises structural components such as a flat, abase, and a divider top, where the structural components are permanentlysecured to one another. Some golf bags further comprise removablecomponents or accessories such as a rain hood or a golf towel. In somegolf bags, traditional rivets are used to secure the structuralcomponents, and a traditional snap system is used to secure theremovable components. Referring to FIG. 7A, a first embodiment of thegolf bag 1000 further comprises snap system 100 as discussed above,where the snap system 100 comprises a mating rivet 110 and a snap 150.The mating rivet 110 secures both the structural components and theremovable components.

Referring to FIG. 6 , the golf bag 1000 comprises a flat 1010 having anupper portion 1014, a lower portion, an exterior side 1012, and aninterior side 1013. The flat 1010 can further comprise one or morelayers. Referring again to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the flat 1010 can comprisetwo layers, where an outer layer 1020 is formed from the flat material,and the inner layer 1022 is formed from polyethylene. The inner layer1022 comprises a hook and loop fastener 1036 for securing the dividertop. The flat 1010 defines a plurality of flat apertures (hereafterreferred to as “flat apertures”) near the upper portion 1014, where theflat apertures extend through the one or more layers from the interiorside 1013 to the exterior side 1012. The flat apertures are configuredto receive a plurality of mating rivets 110 (hereafter referred to as“mating rivets”). The mating rivets 110 are capable of securing themulti-layer flat 1010 to other structural components of the golf bag1000.

The golf bag 1000 further comprises a divider top 1030 that separatesthe golf clubs into different compartments. The divider top 1030 islocated near the flat upper portion 1014. The flat 1010 is the outermostlayer of the golf bag 1000, and the divider top 1030 is positionedwithin the flat 1010. The divider top 1030 comprises an outer ring 1032and a mesh layer 1034. The outer ring 1032 can be formed frompolypropylene. A top portion of the mesh layer 1034 wraps over the topof the outer ring 1032 and is permanently affixed to the flat 1010 onthe exterior side of the golf bag 1000. A bottom portion of the meshlayer 1034 is removably affixed to the flat inner layer 1022 via thehook and loop connection 1036. The outer ring 1032 is encapsulatedbetween the flat 1010 and the mesh layer 1034. The flat 1010 and thedivider top 1030 are structural components of the golf bag 1000, whichare secured together with mating rivets 110. As such, the divider top1030 is configured to receive mating rivets 110.

The outer ring 1032 defines a plurality of divider top apertures(hereafter referred to as “divider top apertures”), where each dividertop aperture aligns with a corresponding flat aperture. The flat 1010 issecured to the divider top 1030 via the mating rivets 110, where eachmating rivet 110 is received through a flat-divider top aperture pair1050 (hereafter referred to as “the aperture”).

As discussed above, the flat 1010 is the outermost layer of the golf bag1000. The divider top 1030 is positioned within the flat 1010. Eachmating rivet 110 is aligned and received within each aperture 1050 suchthat the head 120 is exposed on the flat exterior side 1012. The shanktail end 142 passes through the aperture 1050 to the interior side ofthe golf bag 1000. Therefore, the mating rivet 110 secures a multi-layergolf bag construction. The golf bag 1000 comprises a thickness measuredbetween the flat exterior side 1012 to the inner surface of the mesh1036. The thickness can be between 3.0 mm to 6.5 mm. In someembodiments, the thickness is between 3.00 mm to 4.50 mm, 3.50 mm to5.00 mm, 4.00 mm to 6.50 mm, 4.50 mm to 5.00 mm, or 5.00 mm to 6.50 mm.In some embodiments, the thickness is approximately 3.00 mm, 3.25 mm,3.50 mm, 3.75 mm, 4.00 mm, 4.25 mm, 4.50 mm, 4.75 mm, 5.00 mm, 5.25 mm,mm, 5.75 mm, 6.0 mm, 6.25, or 6.50 mm

As discussed above, the mating rivet 110 comprises a head 120 and ashank 140. The head 120 comprises an upper surface 122 and a lowersurface 124, where the lower surface 124 is parallel to the exteriorside of the flat 1012. The head 120 is positioned on the flat exteriorside 1012 such that the lower surface 124 lies flush with the flatexterior side 1012. The head 120 is configured to mate with a snap 150,which is associated with a removable component.

The shank 140 extends from the head lower surface 124 and permanentlysecures the flat 1010 and the divider top 1030. The shank 140 comprisesa tail end 142 opposite the head lower surface 124. The tail end 142does not provide an attachment point that mates with the snap 150. Themating rivet shank 140 is impacted, and the shank tail end 142 splitsinto a plurality of shank sections 144 to pinch the divider top outerring 1032 against the head lower surface 124. The mesh layer 1034 hidesthe shank sections 144 from visibility on the interior side of the golfbag 1000. The shank 140 secures the structural components of golf bag1000, while the head 120 is configured to mate with a snap 150 to securea removable component.

The removable components are secured to the flat exterior side 1012,near the divider top 1030. The mating rivet heads 120 is exposed on theflat exterior side 1012 near the divider top 1030, and are therefore,configured to receive the removable components.

For example, the mating rivet head 120 can receive a rain hood 1040.Referring to FIG. 6 , the rain hood lower perimeter 1046 comprises aplurality of snaps 150 (hereafter referred to as “snaps”). The snap 150is illustrated in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Each snap 150 comprises a cap 180 anda socket 160, where the cap 180 is located on the rain hood exteriorside 1042, and the socket 160 is located on the rain hood interior side1043.

The rain hood 1040 defines a plurality of rain hood apertures (hereafterreferred to as rain hood apertures 1048. The cap 180 comprises a post188, where the post 188 extends through the rain hood aperture 1048 andis received within an aperture defined by the socket 160. The rain hood1040 is pinched between the cap 180 and the socket 160 such that the capbottom surface 184 contacts the rain hood exterior side 1042, and thesocket top surface 162 contacts the rain hood interior side 1043. Thesocket central portion 166 defines a cavity 170 configured to receivethe mating rivet head 120. The snap 150 encapsulates the mating rivethead 120 such that the cap 180 is the outermost portion of the snapsystem 100 when the rain hood 1040 is installed.

The rain hood 1040 is one example of a removable golf bag component,however, the mating rivet is configured to receive various removablecomponents. The removable components can also include but are notlimited to towels, bag tags, headcovers, tools, and range finders.

As discussed above, some golf bags can comprise traditional rivets thatsecure the structural components, and traditional snap systems thatsecure removable components. The mating rivet provides severaladvantages over traditional snap systems and traditional rivets. Themating rivet is a multi-functional fastener that provides a structuralcomponent to the golf bag as well as an attachment point for removablecomponents. The mating rivet consolidates the attachment point of atraditional snap system with a traditional rivet, thereby reducingclutter on the flat exterior side.

Further, the mating rivet can secure thicker material than thetraditional snap system, and the mating rivet shank sections self-adjustto accommodate varying material thickness. The traditional attachmentpoint is limited to a particular material thickness. The pin does notdeform and cannot be adjusted for a material having a variablethickness, and the base is formed from a weak material that is notcapable of securing a thick material. The traditional attachment pointis not a universal feature, and instead, is loose on any material thatit is not sized for. The mating rivet is a universal feature that can beapplied to any location on the bag because it is not restricted bymaterial thickness. The plurality of snaps located around the bottomportion of the rain hood allows the rain hood to be quickly andefficiently attached and detached to a top portion of the golf bag. Themating rivet allows the designer to locate removable items in morelocations on the bag. The mating rivet provides a sturdy attachmentpoint for the snap as it secures the structural components of the golfbag. The traditional attachment point is secured only through anoutermost layer of the flat and is not a structural component. Themating rivet described herein does not require any additional support orwaterproofing components.

The mating rivet head lower surface lies flush with the exterior side ofthe flat and the upper surface and perimeter surface define continuoussurfaces devoid of apertures. Therefore, the mating rivet is awaterproof component that does not need to be covered when the rain hoodis not installed. Further, the mating rivet head does not project farbeyond the exterior side of the flat, which prevents the head fromsnagging during the transport.

Method

The snap system described herein can be formed using various methods. Insome embodiments, the method of manufacturing the snap system comprises(1) forming a mating rivet; (2) installing the mating rivet to a firstmaterial; (3) providing a snap; and (4) installing the snap to a secondmaterial.

In step one, the mating rivet can comprise a head formed integrally witha shank. In step two, an apparatus can be used to install the matingrivet to the first material, as illustrated in FIG. 4C. FIG. 4D canillustrate the apparatus deforming the shank from the original shape.The apparatus can include a press and an anvil, where the anvil caninclude a surface having an imprinted shape. The imprinted shape cancorrespond to the desired geometry of the deformed shank. The matingrivet can be positioned within an aperture of the first material. Thehead can be aligned with the press, and the shank can be aligned withthe anvil. Referring to FIG. 4D, the press can apply a downward force tothe head until the shank impacts the imprinted surface. The shank candeform according to the imprinted shape of the anvil. Referring to FIG.4B, the shank can form one or more shank sections. In step three, thesnap can comprise a cap having a post, and a socket that receives thepost through an aperture. In step four, the post can be positionedthrough an aperture defined by the second material and further receivedby the aperture of the socket.

Examples I. Example 1: Snap System 100 Compared to a Traditional SnapSystem 500

Further described herein is a comparison between the snap system 100 asapplied to golf bag 1000 and a traditional snap system 500 as applied togolf bag 5000, as illustrated in FIGS. 7A-7D. The comparison discussedbelow provides an illustration of a how snap system 100 providesadvantages over the traditional snap system 500. The traditional snapsystem 500 comprises a similar attachment point to that of snap system100. However, the traditional snap system 500 does not provide astructural component to the golf bag 500.

Similar reference numbers are used to describe the traditional snapsystem 500 compared to the snap system 100, but for the inability oftraditional snap system 500 to provide a structural component to thegolf bag 5000. For example, snap system 500 comprises an attachmentpoint head 520, which provides a similar function to the mating rivethead 120 of snap system 100. Similar reference numbers are also used todescribe the golf bag 5000 compared to the golf bag 1000. For example,the golf bag 5000 comprises a flat 5010 and a divider top 5030, whichare similar to the flat 1010 and the divider top 1030 of golf bag 1000.

Referring to FIGS. 7C and 7D, the traditional snap system 500 comprisesa traditional snap 550, a traditional attachment point 510, and a base540. The traditional snap 550 is similar to the snap 150 of snap system100. The traditional attachment point 510 comprises a head 520 and a pin542. The head 520 is similar to the mating rivet head 120 of the snapsystem 100. The traditional attachment point 510, however, does notcomprise a riveting component. Instead, the head 520 comprises a pin542, where the pin 542 is received through a flat aperture 5050 andfurther received by the base 540. The flat 5010 is secured between thehead 520 and the base 540 such that the head 520 is on the flat exteriorside 5012, and the base 540 is on the flat interior side 5013.

The main difference in the snap system 100 and the traditional snapsystem 500 is the structure that secures the head 520. Referring to FIG.7B, the mating rivet 110 comprises a shank 140 that secures the flat1010 and the divider top 1030. Referring to FIG. 7D, the traditionalattachment point 510 comprises a base 540 that receives the pin 542. Thebase 540 and the pin 542 are not structural components and only securethe flat 5010.

The shank 140 of the snap system 100 replaces the traditional attachmentpoint pin 542 and base 540. The shank 140 reduces the number of requiredparts for the snap system 100. Further, the mating rivet 110 secures aflat 1010 having a greater thickness than the flat 5010. Further, themating rivet shank sections 144 self-adjust to accommodate varying flatthicknesses. The traditional attachment point 510 is limited to aparticular flat thickness because the pin 542 does not deform and cannotbe adjusted for a flat 5010 having a variable thickness. Further, thebase 540 is formed from a weak material that is not capable of securinga thick flat 5010 and does not provide a structural component.Therefore, the traditional attachment point 510 is not a universalfeature, and instead, is loose on any portion of the flat 5010 that itis not sized for. The mating rivet 110 is a universal feature that canbe applied to any location of the bag 1000 because it is not restrictedby the flat thickness. The mating rivet 110 allows the designer tolocate removable items in more locations on the golf bag 1000.

A pull test further exemplified the advantages of the mating rivet 110compared to the traditional attachment point 510. The pull testdemonstrated the tensile strength of each component under the typicalloading conditions created when a rain hood snap is removed from head120, 520. The mating rivet 110, as illustrated in FIG. 7B, was formedfrom steel. The traditional attachment point 510, as illustrated in FIG.7D, was formed from Polyoxymethylene.

Four samples of each component were tested. The mating rivet 110 sampleswere applied to a divider top for a golf bag. The divider top was formedfrom a single layer of polypropylene that was 4.5 mm thick. Theattachment point 510 samples were applied to a woven material thatresembled a golf bag flat 5010. The woven material was 0.5 mm thick. Themating rivet 110 and the traditional attachment point 510 were appliedto different materials to simulate real-world applications of eachcomponent. In other words, the mating rivet 110 is a structuralcomponent and can be applied to a thicker, more rigid material than thetraditional attachment point 510. However, a similar fixturing waspositioned on both components.

A fixturing was positioned below the head 120, 520 of each sample suchthat the fixturing was between the head lower surface 124, 524 and therespective divider top or woven material. The fixturing applied atensile force or pulled the head 120, 520 away from the respectivedivider top or woven material. The tensile force was applied at a 90°angle relative to the head 120, 520. The tensile force simulated a snapbeing ripped or pulled from each of the heads 120, 520 and demonstratedthe overall strength and performance of the mating rivet 110 versus thetraditional attachment point 510. The pull test results are illustratedin Table 1 below. The “Load at Failure” columns represent the load(measured in pound-force or “lbf”) that each sample failed under.

TABLE 1 Load at Failure (lbf) POM (original snap) Steel Mating RivetSample 1 21 101 Sample 2 22 101 Sample 3  7  97 Sample 4  5  99 Average13.75  99.5

Referring to Table 1 above, the average traditional attachment point 510failed under a load of 13.75 lbf. The average mating rivet 110 failedunder a load of 99.5 lbf. The mating rivet 110 yielded a 623.64%increase in strength compared to the traditional attachment point 510.

The significant increase in strength was attributed to the geometry andthe material selected for the mating rivet 110. The head 120 and theshank 140 of the mating rivet 110 were formed integrally from a steelalloy. The head 120 was reinforced by the shank 140, which is typicallya durable structural component. Because the head 120 was formedintegrally with the shank 140, the failure of the mating rivet 110 wasobserved at the shank 140. Specifically, that mating rivet 110 failedwhere the shank sections 144 became unfolded and released from thedivider top. In contrast, the failure of the traditional attachmentpoint 510 was observed at the head 520. The head 520 of the traditionalattachment point 510 was connected to the base 540 by the pin 542. Thebase 540 and the pin 542 were formed from Polyoxymethylene and were notstructural components capable of reinforcing the head 520. As such,failure was observed in the traditional attachment point 510 where thehead 520 broke and separated from the pin 542.

Failure was observed in the traditional attachment point 510 samples atmuch lower tensile forces than the mating rivet 110 samples. Further,failure was observed at the head 520 of the traditional attachment pointand at the shank sections 144 of the mating rivet. Therefore, the head120 of the mating rivet 110 was stronger than the head of thetraditional attachment point 510. Based on the increased strength of thehead 120, the mating rivet 110 was overall more durable than thetraditional attachment point 510. The pull test demonstrated that themating rivet 110 provides significant performance improvements over thetraditional attachment point 510. The improved performance wasattributed to the integrally formed head 120 and shaft 140 of the matingrivet 110 in combination with the steel alloy material that formed themating rivet 110.

II. Example 2: Snap System 200 Compared to a Traditional Snap System 600

Further described herein is a comparison between the snap system 200 asapplied to the golf bag 1000 and a traditional snap system 600 asapplied to a golf bag 6000, as illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8D. Thecomparison discussed below provides an illustration of a how the snapsystem 200 provides advantages over the traditional snap system 600. Thetraditional snap system 600 comprises additional components incomparison to snap system 200.

Similar reference numbers are used to describe the traditional snapsystem 600 compared to the snap system 200, but for the additionalcomponents of the snap system 600. For example, snap system 600comprises an attachment point head 620, which provides a similarfunction to the mating rivet head 220. Similar reference numbers arealso used to describe the golf bag 6000 compared to the golf bag 1000.For example, the golf bag 6000 comprises a flat 6010 and a divider top6030, which are similar to the flat 1010 and the divider top 1030 ofgolf bag 1000.

Referring to FIGS. 8C and 8D, traditional snap system 600 comprises atraditional snap 650 and a traditional attachment point 610. Thetraditional snap 650 is similar to the snap 250 of snap system 200. Thetraditional attachment point 610 comprises a head 620 and a base 630.The traditional attachment point 610 differs from the mating rivet 210in that the head 620 is not formed integrally with the base 630.Instead, the base 630 comprises a shank 640 that projects from the base630 and is received through an aperture 612 defined by the head 620. Theshank 640 extends toward the flat exterior side 6012 and passes throughan aperture defined by the flat 6050. The shank 640 splits into severalshank sections 644 in response to an impact, where the shank sections644 press against the head 620 within the recess. The flat 6010 issecured between the head 620 and the base 630.

The snap system 200 comprises a multi-function mating rivet 210 thatprovides an attachment point for a snap 250 and further provides astructural component to the golf bag 1000. The mating rivet 210 is asturdy component because the head 220 and the shank 240 are formedintegrally from a strong material. In contrast, traditional snap system600 comprises a two-part attachment point 610, where the head 620 andthe shank 640 are separate components. The shank 640 extends towards theflat exterior side 6012 to secure the head 620, where the shank 240 ofthe mating rivet 210 extends towards the flat interior side 1013.

The mating rivet 210 consolidates the attachment point of traditionalsnap system 600 with a traditional rivet, thereby reducing clutter onthe flat exterior side 1012. Traditional snap system 600 requires anattachment point 610 in addition to a traditional rivet. Therefore, snapsystem 600 does not reduce the number of required parts.

Further, traditional snap system 600 is not waterproof. The head 620defines an aperture 612, which exposes the flat interior side 6013. Themating rivet 210 defines a continuous upper surface 222 devoid of anaperture. Therefore, snap system 200 does not require any additionalwaterproofing components.

Clauses

Clause 1: A snap system comprising a mating rivet and a snap, wherein:the mating rivet comprises a head and a shank, wherein: the headcomprises a head upper surface, a head lower surface, and a headperimeter surface, wherein: a central portion of the head upper surfaceis recessed into the head towards the head lower surface to define arecess; a peripheral portion of the head upper surface defines a rimthat circumscribes the recess; the head perimeter surface comprises aprotrusion that projects outwardly from the head perimeter surface; andthe shank extends from the head lower surface, and the shank comprises atail end opposite the head lower surface; the snap comprises a sockethaving a socket top surface and a socket bottom surface and a cap havinga cap top surface and a cap bottom surface, wherein: the socket topsurface is proximate the cap bottom surface, and the socket bottomsurface is proximate the head upper surface; the socket furthercomprises a central portion and a perimeter portion, wherein: thecentral portion defines a socket aperture extending through the socketfrom the socket top surface to the socket bottom surface; the centralportion further defines a socket cavity recessed into the socket awayfrom the head lower surface; the cap comprises a post extending from thecap bottom surface, wherein the post extends through the socketaperture.

Clause 2: The snap system of clause 1, wherein: the mating rivet securesa first material having an interior side and an exterior side, wherein:the first material defines an aperture extending from the interior sideto the exterior side; the shank is aligned and positioned within theaperture such that the head lower surface lies flush with the exteriorside, and the tail end is exposed on the interior side; and the tail endsplits into a plurality of shank sections response to an impact to pinchthe interior side of the first material against the head lower surface.

Clause 3: The snap system of clause 2, wherein: the snap secures asecond material having an interior side and an exterior side, wherein:the second material defines an aperture extending from the interior sideto the exterior side; the post is aligned and positioned through theaperture and further received within the socket aperture such that thecap bottom surface contacts the exterior side of the second material,and the socket top surface contacts the interior side of the secondmaterial; and a distal end of the post deforms in response to an impactto pinch the second material between the cap and the socket.

Clause 4: The snap system of clause 2, wherein: the head lower surfaceis parallel to the exterior side of the first material; the headperimeter surface is perpendicular to the exterior side of the firstmaterial; the protrusion projects from the head perimeter surface in adirection parallel to the exterior side of the first material; theprotrusion is located closer to the head upper surface than the headlower surface; and the protrusion defines a transition between the rimand the head perimeter surface.

Clause 5: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the head upper surface ofthe head is a continuous bowl shaped surface devoid of an aperture, andthe rim of the head is a continuous uninterrupted surface.

Clause 6: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the rim is rounded nearthe head upper surface.

Clause 7: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the head of the matingrivet defines a male component, and the socket of the snap defines afemale component of the snap system.

Clause 8: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the shank is a hollowcylinder.

Clause 9: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the shank is positionedbetween the head and the tail end of the shank.

Clause 10: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the tail end of theshank does not provide an attachment point that mates with the snap.

Clause 11: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the shank comprises adiameter between 2.0 millimeters and 10.0 millimeters.

Clause 12: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the shank comprises alength between 8.0 millimeters and 20.0 millimeters.

Clause 13: The snap system of clause 2, wherein the first materialcomprises a thickness between 2.0 millimeters to 16.0 millimeters.

Clause 14: The snap system of clause 3, wherein the second materialcomprises a thickness between 0.20 millimeters and 4.20 millimeters.

Clause 15: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the head comprises anouter diameter between 5.0 millimeters and 10.0 millimeters.

Clause 16: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the head comprises athickness between 1.0 millimeters to 5.0 millimeters.

Clause 17: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the recess comprises adiameter between 2.0 mm and 10.0 millimeters.

Clause 18: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the recess comprises adepth between 0.5 millimeters and 4.5 millimeters.

Clause 19: The snap system of clause 2, wherein the recess is convexrelative to the first material.

Clause 20: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the head and the shankare formed integrally, and the mating rivet is formed from a singlematerial.

Clause 21: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the mating rivet isformed from a steel alloy.

Clause 22: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the snap is formed froma polymeric material.

Clause 23: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the socket encapsulatesthe head of the mating rivet.

Clause 24: The snap system of clause 1, wherein: the socket cavity isrecessed into the socket via a cavity wall and a cavity floor; thesocket cavity comprises a variable diameter; the socket furthercomprises a variable thickness, wherein the thickness around theperimeter portion of the socket is less than the thickness near thecentral portion of the socket.

Clause 25: The snap system of clause 3, wherein the cap top surface andthe cap bottom surface are concave relative to the first material.

Clause 26: The snap system of clause 3, wherein the distal end of thepost forms a stud when deformed, and the stud is received within therecess of the head.

Clause 27: The snap system of clause 3, wherein the first material andthe second material can be cloth, metal, or plastic.

Clause 28: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the socket cavitycomprises a diameter between 5.0 millimeters and 10.0 millimeters.

Clause 29: The snap system of clause 1, wherein the socket cavitycomprises a depth between 0.75 millimeters and 4.75 millimeters.

Clause 30: A golf bag comprising: a flat, a base, a divider top, and asnap system, wherein: the flat comprises an upper portion, a lowerportion, an exterior side, and an interior side; the flat defines aplurality of flat apertures near the upper portion, wherein theplurality of flat apertures extend from the interior side to theexterior side; the divider top comprises a ring that defines a pluralityof divider top apertures, wherein each divider top aperture aligns witha corresponding flat aperture; the snap system comprises a plurality ofmating rivets and a plurality of snaps; the flat is secured to thedivider top via the plurality of mating rivets, wherein each matingrivet is received through a flat-divider top aperture pair.

Clause 31: The golf bag of clause 30, wherein: each of the plurality ofmating rivets comprises a head and a shank, wherein: the head comprisesa head upper surface, a head lower surface, and a head perimetersurface, wherein: a central portion of the head upper surface isrecessed into the head towards the head lower surface to define arecess; a peripheral portion of the head upper surface defines a rimthat circumscribes the recess; the head perimeter surface comprises aprotrusion that projects outwardly from the head perimeter surface; andthe shank extends from the head lower surface, and the shank comprises atail end opposite the head lower surface.

Clause 32: The golf bag of clause 31, wherein: the head lower surface isparallel to the exterior side of the flat; the head perimeter surface isperpendicular to the exterior side of the flat; the protrusion projectsfrom the head perimeter surface in a direction parallel to the exteriorside of the flat; the protrusion is located closer to the head uppersurface than the head lower surface; and the protrusion defines atransition between the rim and the head perimeter surface.

Clause 33: The golf bag of clause 32, wherein: the shank is aligned andpositioned within a flat-socket aperture pair such that the head lowersurface lies flush with the exterior side of the flat, and the tail endis exposed on the interior side of the flat; and the tail end splitsinto a plurality of shank sections response to an impact to pinch theinterior side of the flat against the head lower surface.

Clause 34: The golf bag of clause 31, wherein the tail end of the shankdoes not provide an attachment point.

Clause 35: The golf bag of clause 31, wherein each of the plurality ofsnaps comprises a socket having a socket top surface and a socket bottomsurface and a cap having a cap top surface and a cap bottom surface,wherein: the socket top surface is proximate the cap bottom surface, andthe socket bottom surface is proximate the head upper surface; thesocket further comprises a central portion and a perimeter portion,wherein: the central portion defines an aperture extending through thesocket from the socket top surface to the socket bottom surface; thecentral portion further defines a cavity recessed into the socket awayfrom the socket bottom surface; the cap comprises a post extending fromthe cap bottom surface, wherein the post is received by the socket.

Clause 36: The golf bag of clause 30, further comprising a rain hood,wherein: the rain hood comprises a main portion, a lower perimeter, anexterior side, and an interior side; the rain hood defines a rain hoodaperture near the lower perimeter, wherein the plurality of rain hoodapertures extend from the interior side to the exterior side; and thelower perimeter comprises a plurality of snaps, wherein each snapcomprises a cap and a socket.

Clause 37: The golf bag of clause 35, wherein the post is aligned andpositioned through the rain hood aperture and further received within asocket aperture such that the cap bottom surface contacts an exteriorside of the rain hood, the socket top surface contacts an interior sideof the rain hood, and a distal end of the post deforms in response to animpact to pinch the rain hood between the cap and the socket.

Clause 38: The golf bag of clause 32, wherein the head lower surface isflush with the exterior side of the flat.

Clause 39: The golf bag of clause 30, wherein the flat comprises one ormore layers, wherein the layers can be one layer, two layers, threelayers, four layers, five layers, six layers, seven layers, 8 layers, 9layers, or 10 or more layers.

Clause 40: The golf bag of clause 30, wherein a combined thickness ofthe flat and the divider top is between 2.0 millimeters and 7.0millimeters.

1. A golf bag comprising: a flat, a base, a divider top, and a snapsystem, wherein: the flat comprises an upper portion, a lower portion,an exterior side, and an interior side; the flat defines a plurality offlat apertures near the upper portion, wherein: the plurality of flatapertures extend from the interior side to the exterior side; thedivider top comprises a ring that defines a plurality of divider topapertures, wherein: each divider top aperture aligns with acorresponding flat aperture; the snap system comprises a plurality ofmating rivets and a plurality of snaps, wherein: each of the pluralityof mating rivets comprises a head and a shank, wherein: the head is anattachment point for the snap and is formed integrally with the shank;the head comprises a head upper surface, a head lower surface, a headperimeter surface, and a head geometry, wherein: the head geometrycorresponds to a snap geometry to facilitate a removable connectionbetween the mating rivet and the snap; the flat is secured to thedivider top via the plurality of mating rivets, wherein: each matingrivet is received through a flat-divider top aperture pair.
 2. The golfbag of claim 1, wherein a central portion of the head upper surface isrecessed into the head towards the head lower surface to define arecess; a peripheral portion of the head upper surface defines a rimthat circumscribes the recess; the head perimeter surface comprises aprotrusion that projects outwardly from the head perimeter surface; andthe shank extends from the head lower surface, and the shank comprises atail end opposite the head lower surface.
 3. The golf bag of claim 2,wherein the head lower surface is parallel to the exterior side of theflat; the head perimeter surface is perpendicular to the exterior sideof the flat; the protrusion projects from the head perimeter surface ina direction parallel to the exterior side of the flat; the protrusion islocated closer to the head upper surface than the head lower surface;and the protrusion defines a transition between the rim and the headperimeter surface.
 4. The golf bag of claim 3, wherein the shank isaligned and positioned within a flat-socket aperture pair such that thehead lower surface lies flush with the exterior side of the flat, andthe tail end is exposed on the interior side of the flat; and the tailend splits into a plurality of shank sections response to an impact topinch the interior side of the flat against the head lower surface. 5.The golf bag of claim 2, wherein the tail end of the shank does notprovide an attachment point.
 6. The golf bag of claim 2, wherein each ofthe plurality of snaps comprises a socket having a socket top surfaceand a socket bottom surface and a cap having a cap top surface and a capbottom surface, wherein: the socket top surface is proximate the capbottom surface, and the socket bottom surface is proximate the headupper surface; the socket further comprises a central portion and aperimeter portion, wherein: the central portion defines an apertureextending through the socket from the socket top surface to the socketbottom surface; the central portion further defines a cavity recessedinto the socket away from the socket bottom surface; the cap comprises apost extending from the cap bottom surface, wherein the post is receivedby the socket.
 7. The golf bag of claim 1, further comprising a rainhood, wherein: the rain hood comprises a main portion, a lowerperimeter, an exterior side, and an interior side; the rain hood definesa rain hood aperture near the lower perimeter, wherein a plurality ofrain hood apertures extend from the interior side to the exterior side;and the lower perimeter comprises a plurality of snaps, wherein eachsnap comprises a cap and a socket.
 8. The golf bag of claim 6, furthercomprising a rain hood, wherein the rain hood comprises a plurality ofrain hood apertures, wherein the post is aligned and positioned througheach aperture of the plurality of rain hood apertures and furtherreceived within a socket aperture such that the cap bottom surfacecontacts an exterior side of the rain hood, the socket top surfacecontacts an interior side of the rain hood, and a distal end of the postdeforms in response to an impact to pinch the rain hood between the capand the socket.
 9. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the head comprises athickness between 1.0 millimeters to 5.0 millimeters.
 10. The golf bagof claim 2, wherein the recess comprises a diameter between 2.0 mm and10.0 millimeters.
 11. The golf bag of claim 2, wherein the recesscomprises a depth between 0.5 millimeters and 4.5 millimeters.
 12. Thegolf bag of claim 1, wherein the head and the shank are formedintegrally, and the mating rivet is formed from a single material. 13.The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the mating rivet is formed from a steelalloy.
 14. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein the snap is formed from apolymeric material.
 15. The golf bag of claim 6, wherein the socketencapsulates the head of the mating rivet.
 16. The golf bag of claim 6,wherein: the socket cavity is recessed into the socket via a cavity walland a cavity floor; the socket cavity comprises a variable diameter; thesocket further comprises a variable thickness, wherein the thicknessaround the perimeter portion of the socket is less than the thicknessnear the central portion of the socket.
 17. The golf bag of claim 6,wherein a distal end of the post forms a stud, and the stud is receivedwithin the recess of the head.
 18. The golf bag of claim 6, wherein thehead of the mating rivet defines a male component, and the socket of thesnap defines a female component of the snap system.
 19. The golf bag ofclaim 6, wherein the perimeter portion of the socket and the exteriorside of the flat define a gap.
 20. The golf bag of claim 1, wherein theflat comprises one or more layers.